Coraline

by Neil Gaiman
Coraline cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Fantasy, Young Adult
Buy online
Bookshop
Format • £8.54–£16.14
Waterstones
Paperback • £7.99–£16.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 3418
  • Added: 2025-10-18
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • ISBN: 9781408818619
  • Publisher: A&C Black
  • Published: 2012-01-01
  • Formats: 15
  • Reviews: 4

Coraline Jones moves into a new home with her parents, where she finds a mysterious door in the drawing room that leads to a strange and eerie parallel world. Behind the door, she encounters an 'other mother' and 'other father' with button eyes and papery skin who want her to stay with them forever. Coraline must navigate this unsettling world and outwit the other mother to return to her real life. The story is a dark fantasy that explores themes of bravery, curiosity, and the power of imagination. The book is beautifully illustrated and has been praised for its chilling atmosphere and compelling narrative.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-12-18
exciting 4.50

This book is a thrilling and beautifully written tale filled with wonderful characters. The story is both creepy and exciting, making it a must-read.

The reviewer absolutely loves this book and can't help but shout their praise from the rooftops. They found the story to be both creepy and exciting, with a beautifully written narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The characters are wonderful and add depth to the tale, making it a compelling read from start to finish. The reviewer also appreciated the way the story balances horror and whimsy, creating a unique and engaging experience.

Quick quotes

    I LOVE THIS BOOK AND I NEED TO SCREAM IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS.

    This is creepy and exciting and beautifully written.

    Filled with wonderful characters.

Novel Notions · 2024-02-16
whimsical 4.50

Coraline is described as a dark, beautiful, and whimsical book that was a pleasant surprise. It is praised for its unique narrative and captivating storytelling.

This reviewer found Coraline to be one of the most pleasant surprises in their reading journey. They highlight the book's dark, beautiful, and whimsical qualities, making it a standout read. The narrative is described as splendid and profound, appealing to readers of all ages. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the book is evident, suggesting it's a must-read for anyone looking for a compelling and imaginative story.

Quick quotes

    Coraline is one of the most pleasant surprises of my reading journey.

    It is dark, beautiful, and whimsical.

    I highly recommend this to every reader of any age who wants to experience a splendid and profound narrative.

Righter of Words · 2021-10-05
Engaging 4.00

Coraline is praised for its clever protagonist and the emotional journey it takes readers on. The story's ability to evoke fear and determination is highlighted as a key strength.

The reviewer admires Coraline for its clever and relatable protagonist, who evokes a sense of fear and determination throughout the story. They feel a strong connection to the character and cheer her on as she navigates the challenges presented. The reviewer appreciates the emotional depth and the way the story captures the essence of bravery and resilience. They find the narrative engaging and well-crafted, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    Coraline is a clever protagonist, and you really feel her fear and determination.

    You really feel her fear and determination, cheering her on throughout the story.

    Coraline is a children's horror story that emphasizes the importance of bravery in the face of fear.

Reddit - r/books · 2020-10-13
good 4.00

The book is praised as a good, short read that offers a glimpse into a crafty fictional world. It is recommended with a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

This reviewer found Coraline to be a good, short read that provides a transient glimpse into an insidious and crafty fictional world. The book is described as more than entertaining enough for adults, while still being appropriate for children. The reviewer's positive rating and recommendation suggest that the book is a worthwhile read with a good balance of creepiness and entertainment.

Quick quotes

    The book is a good, short read that gives us a transient glimpse into an insidious and crafty fictional world.

    It's more than entertaining enough for adults.

    4/5 stars would recommend.

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